The NCAA men’s tournament is just around the corner, and with it comes the excitement of potential upsets and Cinderella stories. As the tournament kicks off, fans and analysts alike are on the lookout for those unexpected victories that can shake up the brackets and defy the odds.
Defining an upset in sports can sometimes be subjective, but when it comes to the NCAA tournament, the seeding provides a clear guideline. An upset is considered a win by a team seeded five places or more below its opponent. With this definition in mind, let’s take a look at some potential first-round upset candidates in the men’s tourney field seeded 11th or lower.
No. 13 Samford defeats No. 4 Kansas
Samford’s appearance in the Big Dance for the first time since 2000 has brought attention to Bulldogs coach Bucky McMillan. With a deep roster and an impressive scoring average of 86 points per game, Samford poses a tough challenge for the Jayhawks, especially with the absence of Kevin McCullar Jr. Samford’s style of play and depth could give them the edge in what promises to be an exciting matchup.
No. 12 James Madison defeats No. 5 Wisconsin
James Madison’s early season victory at Michigan State and the standout performance of Sun Belt player of the year Terrence Edwards make them a team to watch. With the ability to upset another Big Ten squad, the Dukes have the potential to make a statement in the tournament. Their strong start to the season and the talent of key players position them as a legitimate threat to Wisconsin’s tournament hopes.
No. 14 Wright State defeats No. 3 Tennessee
Wright State has had a solid season, and their matchup against Tennessee presents an opportunity for an upset. The Raiders’ balanced scoring and defensive prowess could pose problems for the Volunteers. With the ability to control the pace of the game and execute on both ends of the court, Wright State has the tools to pull off a surprise victory.
No. 11 Michigan State defeats No. 6 Miami
Michigan State’s experience in the tournament and their history of deep runs make them a dangerous lower-seeded team. Despite their seeding, the Spartans have the talent and coaching to challenge Miami. With a strong defensive mindset and the ability to execute in high-pressure situations, Michigan State is well-positioned to cause an upset in the first round.
No. 11 Notre Dame defeats No. 6 Alabama
Notre Dame’s late-season surge and the leadership of their experienced players make them a formidable opponent for Alabama. The Fighting Irish have shown resilience and a knack for pulling off surprises, making them a team to keep an eye on. With the potential to disrupt Alabama’s game plan and capitalize on key opportunities, Notre Dame has the makings of a first-round upset.
